Tuesday, January 19, 2010

If Michael Pollan was a mom, he might have a different dilemma

I have many issues with the writings (preaching) of Michael Pollan, author of the Omnivore’s Dilemma and now Food Rules. A journalism professor doesn't automatically become a food expert due to some internal epiphany in my book. But many think he is just that.

He wants us all to eat healthier. That I agree with, but we have very different opinions on what constitutes good food choices.

His take of eat local whenever possible isn’t feasible. All the farmers in New York state don’t produce enough food for New York City.

I don’t think corn is the root of all evil

Big farms aren’t bad farms in my opinion. They are a product of the cheap food policy that our government puts forward. And many of them do a good job of producing a high quality product contrary to what those calling them “factory farms“ might think.

There are plenty of other points I would argue with but thought I would treat you to a short post today.

Millions of city folks have read and believe his take on modern agriculture so I was pleasantly surprised today when Laura Vanderkam a working mom brought up some new reasons why his method of eating is not sustainable, or a positive part of her family’s daily routine.

Her blog is a good read and will make even a Pollan disciple think about what they're giving up to eat by his rules. I'm not a mom, but this certainly applies to my family life as well. How about yours?